I’ve avoided talking about this because I wasn’t ready to and because I truly hoped things would turn out differently.

But it looks like that’s not going to happen. And I guess it’s time to share that my marriage of 13+ years has ended.

It sucks a lot to type that, and a lot more to acknowledge it. If you’d told me a year ago that this is where I’d be right now, I would have laughed so hard Chianti would have spewed from my nose.

I’m not laughing now, and honestly, it’s been tough trying to be funny lately.

But continuing to write – and to keep laughing in spite of everything – has also been therapeutic. Having you guys here every day to cheer me on and build me up and tell me I’ve made you laugh has kept me going on the days I just wanted to lie in bed spooning with the dog and drinking wine through a straw.

I’m not going to dwell on this, and I’m not going to answer questions about it. I also ask that you not resort to Pythagoras bashing in the comments. While I won’t pretend this is a mutual decision, I also won’t pretend there aren’t two sides to every story and that he doesn’t have legitimate gripes with me.

One of the most crucial lessons I learned through my bumpy path to publication is that things don’t always go the way you hope they will. That’s certainly true now, but it’s also true that we have to make the best of lousy situations and keep moving forward.

So that’s what I’m doing.

I thank you all for your support, and I promise I’ll be back to telling crude jokes again in no time.

Oh Tawna, I'm so sorry. As someone who's been married for 18 years and knows the ups and downs of a long term relationship, I know that marriage is hard. Sometimes so hard that we wonder why we do it. But it sounds like you've got your head screwed on right and are more than ready to take on life's challenges. Let us know if we can help in any way. We love you!

I'm sorry. Your wittiness and good cheer have covered up what must have been some seriously hard crap. You're awesome beyond awesome, and have been an inspiration as a writer and a funny, cool person. Thank you for sharing. Love and all good thoughts going out to you.

I'm so, so sorry to hear this. Your posts always cheer me up and I wish there was something I could do in return to make you feel less lousy. It sucks that something like this happened just when you should be feeling all giddy about your books coming out.

But you're such an optimist I'm sure you'll manage to come through smiling. (((Hugs)))

*hugs* I'm sorry Tawna. It's never easy but I admire your attitude and the fact that you won't talk ill of P when it might be easy.

My mom spent the weekend with me and I've watched her go through four marriages and four divorces. It's hard on everyone, but she is a great example to me of persevering in her search for happiness and the ability to move on.

I wish I could click "Like" to all of the above comments. Sometimes it's hard to tell whether the light at the end of the tunnel is a freight train or sunshine. You have a great support base, and even those of us who only "virtually" know you appreciate your wit and candor.

Thanks so much for all the kind words and support, guys! It really means a lot to me. Posting this publicly has given me a small sense of closure I desperately needed, and your kind comments help take the sting out. Thank you for being here.

I only found you a couple months ago, but you've already become my go-to blog when I'm feeling like this writing thing is never going to work out. You've inspired me with your wit and your enthusiasm, and now I wish there was something I could do for you. But all I can really do from 2000 miles away is say: Take care of yourself.

Do what you need to do to stay healthy physically, emotionally, legally, and financially. I've seen too many of my friends get totally screwed in this process,and I would hate for that to happen to you. If you haven't done so already, find someone to bounce all the decisions you're going to have to make off of. Someone who will tell you the truth if you're making a mistake because you're not thinking clearly because you're mourning this loss.

Then, on the bad days, when you are sure things can't get any worse, do what I do: Tell yourself "well, at least some day this will make one hell of a story."

You've done such an awesome job of showing us the real Tawna that we all feel like we know you. We've laughed with you and rejoiced with you, and now we ache for you. By telling us this, you treat us as friends, and you know what they say about friends, dontcha? They double our joys and halve our sorrows. I hope sharing with us has helped ease some of your burden. I'm so sorry. Hang in there, kiddo, and keep finding the humor in life. It's always there if we look hard enough. Hugs.

I wish I could be there to replenish your drinks and to make sure the straws you're using are at least the awesome twirly ones. I am so sorry. I am sending you the biggest hug right now and I'll keep sending them your way when you need them!

Sending so much love your way, and so many hugs. I'm sorry things didn't work out, but you have all your friends and followers behind you. You're a wonderful person, and deserve the best life can give. Take whatever time you need to cope; we'll all still be here rooting for you. (And making crude jokes on Twitter.)

I'm really sorry to that, Tawna. And I know this is probably a stupid question, but what about a trial separation instead of a full blown divorce? You guys sounded like you had such a great, (really great, like I'm jealous great) relationship. It just seems so final when you say divorce. Isn't there anything you can do?

You're attitude is truly inspiring. I think all of your blog readers can learn a lot from you. I'm sorry that things aren't working between you and P, and can only hope that things in your life get better, because you deserve all the awesomeness one life can contain.

Big, big hugs, Tawna. You have given so much through your blog--I wish there were some way we could give back. You have my deepest sympathies and all positive energies I can send your way as you work your way through this sad situation.

Tawna - I've been following your blog for a while now and your daily posts have become a highlight of my day. I wish there was something I could say or do to repay the favor, especially during such a difficult time. I just want you to know how sorry I am for what you're going through and to hang in there because it will get better.

Well, damn. That sucks boulders through a cocktail straw. I am very sorry. If you need a place to escape to, you're always welcome in Issaquah. Light and love to you and to your situation. May everything be resolved in the best way possible for everyone involved.

I am so sorry to hear about this! I discovered your blog a few months ago, and ever since it has definitely been a bright point to look forward to everyday! I am so glad that you have been able to find your own bright, laughable moments even with this; you are so strong! I wish you the best of luck moving forward!

Now, enough about the banana and the goat - how about the apple and the ostrich?!

You guys, I can't tell you how much all your comments have meant to me today. I've dreaded writing this post for a long time, but you've completely overwhelmed me with your kindness and compassion. Truly, I don't know how I'd do this without you. Thanks.

Oh, Tawna. So sorry to hear this! It sucks when things end before we're ready for them to end. But you are young, smart, gorgeous, strong, funny, driven, and all kinds of other awesome things, and you're going to get through this, and continue making your way to the great things that are waiting for you!

Wish I could think of something original to say, but everyone's beat me to it. I'm sorry life has thrown this pain in your path. I'm glad you have so many people reaching out to you. And when you get to Nationals, the first drink is on me.

*HUGS*. I've just recently started following your blog and you always make me laugh. I'm so sorry that you are going through this. We are all here for you. If you don't feel like being funny, then don't. Your friends and fans love you for who you are, during the good times and the bad times. Keep going strong, as I know you will. *More hugs*

I don't know how I missed this post today. I'm so sorry that you're sad. I know how much your friendship has meant to me and I wish I could do something to make you feel as wonderful as you've made me feel when I joined the wolf pack. It is an amazing thing-to make people feel warm and welcome. You have a big heart. Know that if I could make you feel better, I most certainly would. (((((hugs)))))

I realize that knowing someone online is different from knowing them in real life, but my first thought when reading this was, "But...it's Tawna! How can this be? She's so awesome to hang out with!"

So sorry you're going through this. I know there's nothing anyone can say to make the pain and suckiness disappear, but hopefully it helps a little to read the words of encouragement from some of the people who look forward to reading your words every day.

(((HUGS))) I'm not sure what I can say that hasn't already been said, but you are truly loved by everyone here. Whatever the reasons for big life changes like this, it always sucks going through them (my husband of 21 years died two years ago).

As well as you can know anyone through their writing, I know you're a strong woman with a brilliant sense of humor and you will make it out of this with even more strength.

Next time you're in the Portland area, I'd be honored to meet you somewhere for a chocolate tasting (since I know nothing about wines).

Shit! This totally, well and truly, completely sucks! Not even close to being in a good way.Drive over the mountain and stop by if you need to, the door will be unlocked. You know I'm awake, I won't have wine, but we can pick some up.Julie

Hey Tawna, we haven't really spoken - I'm one of your (many) stalkers. I realize I'm late to this party and like many of them, I haven't 'known' you long but you are one of the few blogs I follow regularly.

I don't write romance and I fail utterly at writing comedy (it's what I depend on you and the other cool people in my life for) but I find I can relate to your posts no matter what they are about (the gristle in the purse comes to mind). I envy your sharp tongue, the fact that you have a book deal and such an amazing online community to help get you through this - and I'm glad to be a part of it.

I may be young but I know about divorces, seperations and familial deaths - I've been around enough of them. They are always hard but I'll tell you now that with these people and the way your head is screwed on, you've got more going for you than I ever have in those situations. I'll pray for you, the sun WILL come out tomorrow :)

Hey Tawna, we haven't really spoken - I'm one of your (many) stalkers. I realize I'm late to this party and like many of them, I haven't 'known' you long but you are one of the few blogs I follow regularly.

I don't write romance and I fail utterly at writing comedy (it's what I depend on you and the other cool people in my life for) but I find I can relate to your posts no matter what they are about (the gristle in the purse comes to mind). I envy your sharp tongue, the fact that you have a book deal and such an amazing online community to help get you through this - and I'm glad to be a part of it.

I may be young but I know about divorces, seperations and familial deaths - I've been around enough of them. They are always hard but I'll tell you now that with these people and the way your head is screwed on, you've got more going for you than I ever have in those situations. I'll pray for you, the sun WILL come out tomorrow :)

Hey Tawna, we haven't really spoken - I'm one of your (many) stalkers. I realize I'm late to this party and like many of them, I haven't 'known' you long but you are one of the few blogs I follow regularly.

I don't write romance and I fail utterly at writing comedy (it's what I depend on you and the other cool people in my life for) but I find I can relate to your posts no matter what they are about (the gristle in the purse comes to mind). I envy your sharp tongue, the fact that you have a book deal and such an amazing online community to help get you through this - and I'm glad to be a part of it.

I may be young but I know about divorces, seperations and familial deaths - I've been around enough of them. They are always hard but I'll tell you now that with these people and the way your head is screwed on, you've got more going for you than I ever have in those situations. I'll pray for you, the sun WILL come out tomorrow :)

Hey Tawna, we haven't really spoken - I'm one of your (many) stalkers. I realize I'm late to this party and like many of them, I haven't 'known' you long but you are one of the few blogs I follow regularly.

I don't write romance and I fail utterly at writing comedy (it's what I depend on you and the other cool people in my life for) but I find I can relate to your posts no matter what they are about (the gristle in the purse comes to mind). I envy your sharp tongue, the fact that you have a book deal and such an amazing online community to help get you through this - and I'm glad to be a part of it.

I may be young but I know about divorces, seperations and familial deaths - I've been around enough of them. They are always hard but I'll tell you now that with these people and the way your head is screwed on, you've got more going for you than I ever have in those situations. I'll pray for you, the sun WILL come out tomorrow :)

I'm not a good blogger nor a good blog reader. I find it difficult to find the time to keep up with anyone's blog, so while yours is one of my favorites... You get my point. I'm just reading about this via your piercing post.

My heart hurts for you, and I'm sending really big, positive, warm thoughts your way. Also, I'm sending you hugs. You can't feel them, but they are there. I give REALLY good hugs, by the way.

And I have to commend you on how you handled this. You have a large following online. You're about to publish your first novel. I can't imagine a more mature, classy way of handling the situation. I'm in awe.

Oh my god Tawna, my heart literally broke reading this. After following your blog for a year and laughing with you about your many marriage adventures, it's feels like I know both of you personally, and it always sucks to hear a friend going through something as painful as divorce. I'll keep you in my thoughts.

Here's some stupid jokes I plucked off Google:

1)So there's these 2 muffins in an oven.

They're both sitting, just chilling and getting baked.

Then, one of them yells "God Damn, it's hot in here!"

And the other muffin replies: "Holy !@#$, a talking muffin!

2)I went into the Shell gas station this morning and asked for five dollars worth of gas. The clerk farted and gave me a receipt.

I read this post for the first time last week, and I continue to think of you - even though I don't know you - at the most random of times.

I'm heading into my 13th year of marriage and maybe that's why you've been on my mind. Sending virtual hugs and, yes, virtual clinks of the wine glass to you.

While I can't fully understand the pain you are going through, I can appreciate that it must be difficult - even more so combined with such an exciting time in your life.

If you ever need to talk to a complete internet stranger, you know strike up a random email correspondence-pen pal type of thing, don't hesitate. Linda Grimes and Cynthia Reese both approve of me (I think) so I can't be all bad.

That'll teach me to neglect reading my favorite blogs for work and school. You're book release will be a smash and your fans love you! Injecting humor into any situation is not a trait a lot of people have, so I see you totally coming through this with support. Thank you for trusting us with the news.